The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)’s Residential Landscape Architectural Trends Survey highlights popularity among homeowners for drought-resistant, low-maintenance landscapes, along with decks and porches, reports Professional Deck Builder editor Andrew Wormer.
Topping the list of desirable outdoor design features among ASLA’s residential clients? Fire pits and fireplaces. According to ASLA, residential design is the largest market for the landscape architecture profession, with most work focused on single-family homes.
Here are some highlights from the findings:
Outdoor Design Elements (ranked in expected order of popularity for 2018)
Fire pits/ fireplaces – 66.0%
Lighting – 65.4%
Seating/dining areas – 64.0%
Outdoor furniture – 59.1%
Outdoor kitchens – 58.8%
Decking (i.e., rooftop decking, etc.) – 53.6%
Grills – 50.0%
Movie/TV/video theaters, wireless/internet, stereo systems – 48.0%
Outdoor heaters – 40.5%
Stereo systems – 36.9%
Pools and spa features (hot tubs, Jacuzzis, whirlpools, indoor/outdoor saunas) – 36.9%
Utility Storage – 32.3%
Hammocks – 29.2%
Outdoor cooling systems (including fans) – 28.5%
Showers/baths – 22.9%
Outdoor Structures
Enhanced railing systems (cable, glass, etc.) – 51.0%
Pergolas – 48.3%
Decks – 42.8%
Fencing – 41.5%
ADA Accessible structures (ramps, bars, shelving, etc.) – 39.9%
Arbors – 37.4%
Play structures (tree houses, swing sets, etc.) – 34.1%
Porches – 32.6%
Pavilions – 32.6%
Utility sheds (tool sheds, garden sheds) – 30.0%
Gazebos – 21.0%
